Book a flight to Entebbe with Qatar Airways

The scenic British colonial capital of Uganda nestles on the shores of Lake Victoria, the second largest freshwater lake in the world. Entebbe is the Pearl of Africa, the hub of a region redolent of mystery and exoticism.

The atmosphere throughout the city is one of lush serenity. Old colonial parks and gardens have the great lake as an ever-present backdrop. And wildlife sanctuaries and bush expeditions accentuate Entebbe as a nature-lover’s destination.

Book a flight to Entebbe with Qatar Airways and ready yourself for a glorious adventure in the heart of Africa.

You could book a safari, or just head for Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or Reptile Village, to commune with Africa’s icons; Entebbe also has several parks in which to relax, and its Botanic Gardens is a must-see.

While there are plenty of safari tour companies in Entebbe, such as Wild Frontiers and Classic Africa, you can always visit Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. This conservation centre specialises in the captive breeding of endangered species, but it doubles as a zoo. It is the perfect opportunity to see African wildlife in its natural setting. Lions, zebra, rhino and giraffes are all in attendance, along with many other iconic Ugandan fauna. On your trip to Entebbe, Uganda Reptile Village is also worth your time and is just a short journey out of town. But if plants are your preference, then don’t miss out on the splendid Entebbe Botanic Gardens, with its stunning collection of native species.

There’s more than enough to keep you occupied when you travel to Entebbe, but to get a well-rounded overview of the surrounding area, you should take a guided tour. On a Mabamba Shoebill tour you will get to see the wildlife in nearby Mabamba Swamp. If you are feeling more adventurous, try Backpack Uganda Private Day Adventures, which specialises in customised treks into the bush.

You can also take a ferry ride out to the Ssese Islands for a journey back in time. Here, the dust tracks, dense jungle canopy and screeching monkeys create an authentic African experience that is not to be missed.

There are plenty of dining opportunities in Entebbe, from small venues serving affordable authentic Indian food, to idyllic lakeside restaurants where you can watch the sun go down. Some local restaurants specialise in authentic dishes cooked in clay ovens and wood fires. Others take a more continental approach to cuisine, fusing local and international dishes to create intriguing, eclectic menus.

For the best lakeside scenery while you dine, head for Lake Victoria. There is also an excellent Chinese restaurant on Kampala Road. Freshly caught Nile perch and tilapia can be enjoyed in most lakeside establishments.

Oddly enough, you will find that authentic black German bread is very popular in Entebbe and it is sold in a bakery on the lakeside. Fresh fruit is also recommended.

Coffee-lovers should try the local blend. Fair-trade and organic beans are collected from the border with Rwanda, where endangered mountain gorillas roam, and Entebbe residents take a lot of pride in their national drink. Various coffees and pastries are available from cafés and restaurants across the city.

There is a small market in Entebbe on Tuesdays, where you can pick up handmade souvenirs, and also a small shop that sells craft products. Haggling with a smile is welcome and expected in most markets.

Essential facts about Entebbe

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